This Apple Stuffed French Toast is a sweet morning treat! Soft bread hugs a warm apple filling, sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. It’s perfect for lazy weekends or special brunches.
Every bite feels like a cozy hug! I love making this when I have friends over—it always brings smiles and happy “yum” sounds. Just serve it with some syrup, and it’s a hit!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick bread like challah or brioche holds up well for stuffing and gives a nice texture. If those aren’t available, you can use Texas toast or any hearty white bread. Even a sourdough can work for a tangy twist!
Apples: Use your favorite apples for this recipe. For sweetness and flavor, I recommend Honeycrisp or Fuji. If you want a bit of tartness, Granny Smith apples are great too. Can’t find apples? Pears are a good substitute, just adjust the cooking time as they soften faster.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely depth of sweetness and caramelization. If you’re low on brown sugar, white sugar works, though you’ll miss a bit of richness. For a healthier option, try maple sugar or coconut sugar.
Spices: Cinnamon is a must for that warm flavor, but nutmeg adds a nice touch if you like it. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can skip it or use pumpkin pie spice as a substitute.
Milk: Whole milk gives the best creaminess, but feel free to use 2% or even a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk if you prefer.
How Do I Ensure My French Toast is Cooked Perfectly?
The key to perfectly cooked French toast is controlling the heat. Start with medium heat and adjust as necessary. Here’s how:
- Whisk the eggs and milk until smooth, ensuring even coating on the bread.
- Dip the sandwiches briefly—too long can make them soggy. Just a quick soak is enough!
- When cooking, keep an eye on the color. Flip when golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- If the bread browns too fast, lower the heat to allow the inside to cook through without burning the outside.
If your first piece isn’t perfect, don’t worry! Cooking is all about practice. Enjoy your Apple Stuffed French Toast! It’s such a treat for breakfast or brunch!
How to Make Apple Stuffed French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stuffing:
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For the French Toast:
- 4 slices of thick bread (such as challah or brioche)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, you’ll have warm, tasty Apple Stuffed French Toast ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a medium saucepan, set over medium heat, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if you want a little extra spice), and vanilla extract. Cook this mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples become tender and nicely caramelized. Once done, take it off the heat and set it aside to cool a bit.
2. Mix the Egg and Milk:
Grab a shallow bowl and whisk together the eggs and milk until everything is well blended. This will be our dipping mixture for the bread.
3. Make the Sandwiches:
Take two slices of the bread. Spread a generous portion of the apple mixture on one slice and then place another slice on top to create a delicious sandwich. Repeat this with the other two slices of bread.
4. Dip in the Egg Mixture:
Carefully dip both sides of each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure to coat them well. This adds flavor and helps create that golden crust!
5. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter to melt. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the stuffed French toast to the skillet. You might want to work in batches if your skillet isn’t large enough.
6. Brown Them Up:
Cook each sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a lovely golden brown color. If you find that the bread is browning too quickly, simply lower the heat a little.
7. Repeat and Serve:
Once the first batch is done, remove them from the skillet and repeat the cooking with the remaining bread and apple mixture. When ready, serve your delicious Apple Stuffed French Toast warm, drizzled with maple syrup, and sprinkled with powdered sugar if you like. Enjoy every bite!
## FAQ
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While challah and brioche are recommended for their sweetness and texture, you can use any thick-cut bread you prefer, such as French bread or even whole wheat. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness Level?
If you prefer a less sweet version, simply reduce the amount of brown sugar in the apple mixture. You can start with 2 tablespoons instead of 1/4 cup, or even use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake. Taste the apples as you cook to find your perfect balance!
Can I Prepare the Apple Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Make the apple filling ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just gently reheat it on the stove before assembling your French toast to keep the apples warm and caramelized.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the French toast cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or skillet for a few minutes until warmed through!